Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Santa Ana, CA

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes changes in mood and affects the ability to function from day to day. People with bipolar disorder are often referred to as manic-depressive.

The symptoms of bipolar disorder are more severe than the regular up and down emotions most people have. These swings in mood and function can cause sufferers to lose their jobs, relationships with friends or family, and may even drive some to commit suicide.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, bipolar disorder usually develops in the late teens to early adult years, and half of all cases start before the age of 25. Thankfully, many people with bipolar disorder can be treated and go on to lead normal, healthy lives.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

People with bipolar disorder experience mood states—where they swing to one intense emotional state and then to another. An overly happy, excited state is called a “manic” episode. An extremely sad, hopeless state is a “depressive” episode.

Men and women with bipolar disorder can also experience both at the same time. This is known as a “mixed state”.

Manic statesymptoms may include:

Being overly happy or excited

Talking very fast

Jumping from idea to idea

Restlessness

Taking on new projects

Easily distracted

Having an unrealistic belief in their abilities

Impulsive, risk-taking behaviors

Depressive state symptoms may include:

Loss of interest in activities or behaviors they once enjoyed

Feeling tired or slow

Trouble concentrating, remembering or making decisions

Feeling irritable or restless

Changes in eating or sleeping habits

Thoughts of suicide or attempted suicide

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

There is no one known cause of bipolar disorder. Some researchers believe that genetics and brain development play key roles.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Bipolar disorder can worsen without treatment and can have a serious negative impact on work, school and personal relationships. Treatment is a long-term process that focuses on reducing mood cycles and other related symptoms.

Bipolar disorder treatment options include:

Medications

Mood stabilizers like lithium have been used since the 1970's. Anticonvulsants may also be used. All of these drugs carry side effects and health risks that should be discussed before starting the regimen.

Antipsychotic drugs may be used in conjunction with anti-depressants to control episodes of mania.

Antidepressants can control bouts of depression but should be taken with an antipsychotic to reduce the risk of developing mania.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy done in a one-on-one, family, or group setting has shown great benefit for bipolar disorder sufferers. In studies, patients who had intensive psychotherapy had fewer relapses and were able to follow their treatment plan more closely than those who did not.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

For patients who do not respond to therapy and medications, electroconvulsive therapy may be an option. Called “shock therapy” in the past, the practice has evolved far beyond its bad name into an effective treatment for many men and women with bipolar disorder.

Outside Support

The difficulties of bipolar disorder affect many people in a sufferer's life. If you are close to someone with bipolar disorder, do your best to support them with patience and encouragement. Try to learn what you can about the condition, and remind your friend or loved one that they can get better even when it seems difficult.